How Often Should I Change an HVAC Filter?

With proper HVAC maintenance, you can enjoy your unit for many years to come without worrying too much about sudden, costly repairs. Furthermore, it helps ensure your system runs as efficiently as possible so you can continue enjoying clean indoor air and lower utility bills. One simple HVAC maintenance task you can DIY is changing the air filter. Check out how often to change your HVAC filter and how to do it.

How Often Does My HVAC Filter Need to Be Changed?

It’s best to replace your standard fiberglass air filter every one to three months. However, high-end pleated filters are usable for up to 6 months. This guideline assumes average HVAC system use and doesn’t consider other special factors.

But why is it important to know how often to change your HVAC filter? Also, what would happen if you kept putting off filter replacement?

One probable outcome is that you may circulate dust, dirt, and allergens into your interior air. Even if they stay trapped in your filter, the debris will reduce the HVAC unit’s efficiency. Another issue you may encounter is having your heater blow cold air due to a clogged filter. Remember that the longer you use your filter, the more likely it will be dirty.

While you can purchase filters at any hardware shop, keep in mind that they come in various sizes. Therefore, make sure to obtain the right one for your equipment to avoid any problem.

What Affects How Often You Change Your HVAC Filters?

Although following the general recommendation for filter replacement is ideal, certain situations call for more frequent filter changes. One example is when you own pets. If you want to maintain a clean home environment, schedule a filter change every two months since pets are prone to shedding hair and dander. Additionally, you should replace your filter more often than usual if your home has poor outdoor air quality or you’re experiencing symptoms of bad indoor air quality.

Lastly, you’ll need to change your air filters before their lifespan if you run your HVAC system almost constantly. One good indicator it’s time to do so is when you can already see a layer of dust and debris on the filter.

Steps on How to Change an HVAC Filter

Beyond knowing how often to change your HVAC filter, you should also understand how to go about it.

1. After purchasing the right filter for your system, turn off your unit or switch it off at the circuit breaker.

2. Proceed to locate the filter and remove the grill or cover. You may need to use a screwdriver or flip latches to complete this step.

3. Next, remove the old filter while carefully observing its installation.

4. Insert the new filter and make sure the airflow arrows point into the unit.

5. Turn the power back on and check to see if your system is running smoothly.

Call the Professionals at Superior Water & Air Today!

Let a Superior technician tell you more about how often to change your HVAC filter. For any HVAC emergencies, don’t hesitate to contact us today!

The post How Often Should I Change an HVAC Filter? appeared first on Superior Water & Air.